Welcome to the simple guide to the best cork dart board! If you are a starter or casual player, then this board can be your first choice. Among the different types of boards, the cork dart board has some features and some advantages for which this board is very popular today. So no more delay; let’s try to get some ideas about this board.
History of the Cork Dart Board
The first form of dart board used was the cork dart board in the late 19th century. The evolution of these boards involved the use of natural cork obtained from the bark of the cork oak tree. At that time, the cork and sisal combination came up with a board that was most appropriate for darts playing because they were hard and had the ability to recover on their own.
Originally, the arrangement of the cork layers used in making cork dart boards was different than it is today. Cork dart boards today are even more durable since they are made from a combination of natural cork and various synthetic materials.
Construction of this Board
Basically, the construction of a cork dart board is a careful process to make sure that the board is durable and suitable for use. Due to the following characteristics of cork, obtained from the cork oak tree (Quercus suber), is used as the primary material. Cork is one of the best materials that one can use for the making of dart boards because it is light and flexible, and it has the nature of being compressed before regaining its original shape.
The cork used in dart boards is gotten from the cork oak trees which are prevalent in the Mediterranean region. The process of taking bark involves removing it gently from the tree without adversely affecting the tree so that it can grow back again. This process is capable of being accomplished regularly every 9 to 12 years, giving cork its property of being an evergreen resource.
After that, the collected cork is prepared and compacted in form of sheets. These sheets are then cut into circular sections with another sheet of cardboard to create the plies of the dart board. The fitted sections are joined alongside the glued edges to form smooth surfaces. The board is then coated to make it more resistant to wear and tear.
Once the cork surface is ready, the scoring segments and numbers on the board are then put in place. The board is in the form of a circle which is subdivided into twenty numbers and the center part which is called the bullseye.
These numbers are usually arranged in a certain way to achieve a balanced game, with a higher number coming immediately next a low one so as to eliminate a case of consecutive hits on the same place on the board.
Wine Cork Dart Board
A wine cork dart board is an invention of a fully recycled dart board made exclusively from wine corks that have been collected. These boards in addition to their operational role as a game, can also be an exquisite addition to home bars, kitchens, or entertainment rooms.
Wine corks are preferred because they have a soft texture; hence, they are marketable for taking impact without damaging the edges of the darts, while on the other hand, the corks are strong enough to withstand many turns of darts.
One of them is to stack corks systematically in a circular manner, joined or nailed in a backing board, and cover the target area. Such a dart board can come in different sizes and shapes, and the looks of it are unique depending on the maker’s choice.
In addition to being eco-friendly, the wine cork dart board has an artistically attractive appeal and fosters recycling, hence being the No. 1 choice among wine lovers who embrace arts and crafts as well as game lovers.
Advantage of this Board
Cork dartboards offer several advantages, making them a popular choice for both casual and competitive players. Here are some of the key benefits:
Beginners
This board can be a great choice for the newbies who are considering starting the darts game today. Because of learning with these boards is essential for beginners. After going to the expert level then can buy a bristle type of professional board.
Quiet Operation
Cork dartboards are not as loud as some darts like those made of bristle or plastic most especially when the darts are thrown. This makes them suitable for use especially in places such as the apartments or at night when there is possibility of disturbing others.
Soft Landing for Darts
Cork is softer than wood and so the darts are less likely to bounce out of it. This results in better and favorite performance of the game and gives a better shooting result at times.
Lightweight
These boards are very lightweight. For which there is no need to any hassle to setup it up. It can be set up alone and does not cause too much damage to the wall. The walls are not damaged much due to the cork dart board backer.
Budget friendly
These boards are available in the wholesale market at much lower prices than Bristol or other professional dartboards.
Disadvantage of this Board
Though traditional and popular for their classic appeal, come with several disadvantages that might make them less suitable for certain players or environments. These disadvantages can affect the durability, performance, and overall experience of the game.
Durability
The main disadvantage of the cork dart boards is that they are very low on durability and high on maintenance. This is due to the weakness and fragility of cork as a material since it is likely to chip or disintegrate whenever it is struck by darts repeatedly with force. The one thing that was concerning about cork dart boards was that they do not come with rings that can be removed in order to be turned over periodically.
Short Lifespan
Dartboards made from cork are comparatively short-lived. Thus, cork will not have the feature of self-healing, in that the material will not be able to recover from the holes created by the darts instantly. A low-quality cork dart board can last from a few weeks to a few months, keeping in mind that it depends on how often individuals practice and if they do the proper maintenance or not.
Self-Healing Properties
There are no self-healing properties to cork dart boards. Cork cannot expand or shrink when penetrated by darts because it is neither elastic nor robust. A cork dart board’s holes stay in place after you remove the darts from it. Over time, this leads to wear and tear or damage to the surface. Dart boards made of cork are therefore less playable and durable than those made of bristle due to their inability to self-heal.
Assessing Playability
Another disadvantage of cork dart boards is that they have poor playability. Because cork offers a relatively soft and insecure terrain that cannot offer a secure ‘grip’ on the darts, this would be due to the fact that it offers excessive resistance for a dart’s flight. Cork dart boards do not come with wire sections that divide the scoring sectors. Therefore, we can conclude that using Cork dart boards is disadvantageous since players are likely to produce many bounces outs and reduced accuracy.
Not used by Professional
Professional players never choose these types of boards. If they are practicing this type of board, then they will not be able to perform well in international competitions. Because the bristle dartboard (made with sisal fiber) is used in international standard competitions.
A Cork Board for Darts
A cork board for darts is an ideal backing solution, providing protection for walls from errant throws and preserving darts from damage. These are self-healing cork boards made from boards that can act as barriers to stray bullets from darts without causing damage to the walls, besides maintaining tip integrity.
Cork boards are specifically preferred with steel tip dart configurations but are also pertinent for soft-tipped darts. These are best used behind dart boards because they can easily be mounted, are virtually maintenance-free, safe for the environment, and are commonly available in different shades of light gray that will fit in with most décor.
Cork Dart Board with Cabinet
If you’re looking for a stylish and practical addition to a game room or home bar, then a cork dartboard cabinet should be at the top of your list. It typically features a cork backing, which serves dual purposes: It protects walls from stray darts and also provides a natural surface that absorbs impacts, prolonging the life of your darts! When not in use, the dartboard is concealed in the cabinet doors, which are of wood (often). Quite neat and tidy-looking.
There are many of those inside with scoreboards, chalk or marker holders, and room to store darts. Because they’re eco-friendly, sound-dampening, and durable, cork dartboard cabinets are preferred by serious dart players for their functionality and aesthetics.
A cork dartboard cabinet is a great addition whether casual play or competitive practice dart throwing, collecting your darts in a neat, tidy manner, and keeping your space organized and protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a cork dartboard?
The natural material used to make cork dart boards is cork, which is derived from the bark of the cork oak tree. Harvesting cork involves removing the bark’s outer layer without causing damage to the tree. The playing surface of cork dart boards is smooth and soft, with no metal wires dividing the scoring areas.
How long do cork dart boards last?
In general, a cork dart board can have a short or long lifetime, depending on its use frequency, quality, and maintenance. Cork dart boards are comparatively durable and may last for a few months to some years, depending on the circumstances that surround them. Advice to maximize its use includes frequently changing the position of the board, using good-quality darts, and proper cleaning.
How to soften a cork dart board?
To soften a cork dart board, you can try a few methods:
- It is advisable to use steamer because you can steam the cork board gently. This can help to lessen the hardness of the cork so as to facilitate bending of the material.
- First, you need to lightly dampen the cork board with water and let it to soak in for some time so as to make the cork wet and soft.
- Place a heavy object like a rolling pin on top of the cork board, but do this for the purpose of applying pressure so as to soften the board as well.
- Use a hairdryer or heat gun on a low setting to gently heat the cork board and make it more flexible.
Remember to be gentle and patient when trying to soften a cork dart board, as you don’t want to damage the board or affect its performance.
How do you maintain a cork dart board?
Maintaining a cork dartboard is easy and will ensure it lasts a long time. Change the dartboard every couple of weeks as well as change the darts frequently. The cork does not like to be in direct sunlight or in excessive moisture. Wipe away dust or dirt occasionally on the clean surface with a dry cloth.
Don’t use sharp darts, and the heavy force may end up causing more damage. To keep the board fresh, lightly re-wet it with water if the board has become dry or brittle; do not overspray. The main thing is cork dartboard care will extend its lifespan.
What is cork dart board backer?
A cork dart board backer is a special layer placed behind the dart board to protect it. It’s made of natural cork and is the best material for dart board backing. It provides cushioning to safeguard both the wall and the dart tips. Cork backers are great because they also reduce noise and are durable, making them ideal for homes and recreational spaces where walls need protection.
These backers are easy to install and come in different sizes to fit various dart board shapes, giving a neat look that suits any room. Thanks to its self-healing feature, cork remains effective for many years, keeping its appearance even after frequent use.